Exercises
Physical exercises adapted to patients
Stretching and mobilisation exercise videos
Strengthening and muscle stretching exercises are essential to stabilise and consolidate manual therapy and osteopathic treatment. Without the patient's participation and effort, muscular tensions and joint restrictions tend to recur.
1. The importance of stretching after an osteopathy session
Stretching helps improve the flexibility of muscles and joints. When the osteopath releases tensions and realigns body structures, stiff muscles or ligaments may remain limited in their range of motion. By incorporating specific stretches, the patient enables the body to recover full mobility, thereby reducing the risk of new pain or restrictions.
2. The role of muscle strengthening
Muscle strengthening exercises target weakened or underused muscles that are often at the origin of pain or postural imbalances. After an osteopathic correction, strengthening the stabilising muscles helps maintain proper body alignment and prevent injury. For example, exercises to strengthen the muscles of the back and abdomen can be essential for patients suffering from chronic low back pain.
3. A personalised programme
It is essential that stretching and strengthening exercises are adapted to the specific needs of each patient. A generic programme may be unsuitable or even aggravate certain conditions. That is why the osteopath, after assessing the patient's physical condition, may recommend targeted exercises that take into account body imbalances, medical history and lifestyle.
4. Prevention of relapses
Exercises constitute a prevention strategy. By improving posture, muscular strength and flexibility, they help avoid body imbalances and compensations that could lead to new pain. Patients who regularly follow an adapted exercise programme often experience a reduction in recurrences of musculoskeletal disorders.
5. The patient's active role in their recovery
Finally, by incorporating exercises into their daily routine, patients become actors in their own recovery. It helps them become aware of their body, better understand signals of fatigue or pain, and intervene proactively before tensions turn into more serious pathologies.
In conclusion, adapted stretching and strengthening exercises ideally complement osteopathic treatments. They not only reinforce the benefits of osteopathic care, but also promote lasting recovery and prevent recurrences, while giving the patient the tools necessary for better long-term health.
Stretching and mobilisation exercise videos
Watch our videos guided by Charbel Kortbawi for adapted stretches of the neck, back and shoulders.
Stretches
Neck stretches
Guided videos to relieve cervical tensions.
Watch the videos →Stretches
Back stretches
Stretching routines for the lumbar region and back.
Watch the videos →Strengthening exercise videos
Targeted muscle strengthening programmes for the back, abdominals and stabilising muscles.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Which exercises are recommended after an osteopathic consultation?
After a session, it is advisable to start with gentle mobility exercises (pelvic rotations, hamstring stretches) before progressing to core stability and deep strengthening work. Exercises should be adapted to your condition and progressive.
How many times a week should you practise back exercises?
For optimal results, practise the exercises 3 to 5 times a week, 15 to 20 minutes per session. Regularity matters more than intensity. A short daily practice is more effective than long, irregular sessions.
Can exercises replace osteopathy sessions?
Exercises and osteopathy are complementary, not interchangeable. Osteopathy releases mechanical restrictions and restores mobility, while exercises maintain these gains and strengthen the structures. Together, they provide the best long-term results for preventing recurrence.
Are there any exercises to avoid in case of chronic low back pain?
During a painful phase, avoid repeated loaded trunk flexion, forced rotations and high-impact exercises. Favour walking, swimming and unloaded exercises (lying down). Consult your osteopath for an individualised programme adapted to your situation.